Emperor Chōkei facts for kids

Emperor Chōkei (長慶天皇, Chōkei-tennō, 1343 – August 27, 1394) was the 98th Emperor of Japan. He ruled from 1368 to 1383. His personal name was Yutanari (寛成). His regal name, Chōkei, means "Long Celebration."

Emperor Chōkei's Family

Chōkei's father was Emperor Go-Murakami. His mother might have been Kaki Mon'in.

He had several children. His son Gyōgo was born in 1377. Another son, Imperial Prince Tokiyasu, was also part of his family.

Chōkei's Time as Emperor

Emperor Chōkei became emperor on March 29, 1368. His crowning ceremony happened at the Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine in Osaka. This shrine was the capital for the Southern Court at that time.

During his reign, Japan was divided. There were two rival imperial courts. These were the Southern Court and the Northern Court. Emperor Chōkei was part of the Southern Court.

He strongly believed in continuing the fight against the Northern Court. However, the Southern Court was losing its power. In 1383 or 1384, he decided to step down. He gave his throne to Emperor Go-Kameyama. Go-Kameyama supported making peace between the two courts.

After the two courts finally reunited, Emperor Chōkei retired. He went back to Yoshino, where he passed away on August 27, 1394. Today, people honor Emperor Chōkei at Shishō jinja in Totsugawa.

Japanese Era Names During Chōkei's Reign

In Japan, periods of time are often named after the emperor's reign. These are called nengō. Because Japan had two rival courts, there were two different sets of era names at the same time.

Southern Court Eras

These are the era names recognized by the Southern Court:

• Shōhei (1346–1370)
• Kentoku (1370–1372)
• Bunchū (1372–1375)
• Tenju (1375–1381)
• Kōwa (1381–1384)

Northern Court Eras

These are the era names used by the Northern Court:

• Ōan (1368–1375)
• Eiwa (1375–1379)
• Kōryaku (1379–1381)
• Eitoku (1381–1384)

See also

• Emperor of Japan
• List of Emperors of Japan
• Imperial cult